The CFL season is in full swing, and with one-third of the regular season completed, it's time to take a closer look at some of the standout performers and emerging trends. The league is witnessing a battle for supremacy, with a few teams already separating themselves from the pack. Here's a breakdown of some key observations and insights from the first third of the 2026 CFL season.
The Rise of Davis Alexander
Montreal's Davis Alexander is undoubtedly one of the early frontrunners for the George Reed Most Outstanding Player award. His performance this season is a testament to his talent and determination. After throwing for 402 yards and three touchdowns in a recent win over Calgary, Alexander leads the league with 2,181 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, a 71.3% completion rate, and an impressive 120.5 passer rating. This consistent excellence has solidified his spot as one of the league's elite quarterbacks, and Montreal looks like a strong contender for the Grey Cup.
Edmonton's Resurgence
The Edmonton Elks have been a force to be reckoned with, boasting a 5-1 record. Their success is largely attributed to the resurgent form of tailback Justin Rankin, who leads the league with 865 yards from scrimmage and six offensive touchdowns. However, it was a quiet night for Rankin in Week 7, as he failed to hit triple digits for the first time this season, but the Elks still managed a win. Edmonton's ability to adapt and rely on a diverse range of players, such as Cody Fajardo, JJ Ross, and Kenneth Logan Jr., showcases their depth and resilience.
Canadian Receivers Shining
The CFL is witnessing an incredible generation of Canadian receivers, with Montreal's Tyson Philpot leading the way. Philpot has accumulated 807 receiving yards and four touchdown catches, solidifying his position as one of the top receivers in the league. Additionally, Saskatchewan's Kian Schaffer-Baker, Toronto's Kevin Mital, Hamilton's Kiondré Smith, Calgary's Jalen Philpot, and Winnipeg's Nic Demski are all among the top 10 receivers. Their contributions are pivotal in their respective teams' success, showcasing the depth and talent within the Canadian receiver corps.
Emerging Stars in Defense
The defensive side of the ball is also witnessing the rise of some standout performers. Stampeders running back Dedrick Mills is on a roll, leading the league with 524 rushing yards and two touchdowns after leading the league with 1,409 rushing yards in 2025. Similarly, Hamilton's Stavros Katsantonis has established himself as the league's best safety, tied for the top spot with three interceptions. These players are cementing their positions as legitimate stars in the CFL, showcasing their ability to consistently deliver impactful performances.
Quick Observations
- Dru Brown's Return: Winnipeg's Dru Brown, who was traded back to the team late last month, had a stellar performance against his former mates in Ottawa. With Zach Collaros sidelined, Brown has thrown for 656 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception in two starts, showcasing his resilience and talent.
- Calgary's Frustration: The Stampeders are likely feeling frustrated after a second straight tight loss to the Alouettes. Despite their 2-4 record, their combined margin of defeat in their four losses is just 18 points, indicating that they are close to turning things around.
As the season progresses, the CFL continues to showcase its talent and competitive spirit. With a few teams already establishing themselves as contenders, the league is poised for an exciting second half, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming matchups and the potential for some thrilling surprises.
